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Sazan Island & Karaburun Peninsula Boat Adventure

Staying in Durrës or Golem instead of Vlora? See our the full-day speedboat version →

5.052 Google reviewsDeparts from Vlora Marina

This is the boat day people come back to Vlora for. We leave the marina in the morning and cross the bay toward Sazan, a former military island that was closed to the public for decades. You'll see abandoned bunkers and tunnels from the deck, and on most days we're able to step ashore for a short guided walk.

Itinerary

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

  1. 08:45

    Meet at Vlora Marina

    Quick welcome briefing with coffee. We fit masks and snorkels, meet the crew, and set off by 9:15.

  2. 10:00

    Sazan Island

    Cross the Bay of Vlora to Sazan. Guided shore walk past Cold-War bunkers and the abandoned garrison village (sea conditions permitting).

  3. 11:30

    Haxhi Ali Cave

    We sail along the Karaburun cliffs and glide straight into the great sea cave; bring your camera, the light inside is unreal.

  4. 12:15

    Swim stop one: hidden cove

    Anchor in a white-pebble cove reachable only by boat. Swim, snorkel, or stretch out on deck. Lunch is served on board.

  5. 14:00

    Swim stop two: the blue lagoon of Dafina

    Our favourite stretch of water on the whole coast. One more long swim before we turn for home.

  6. 16:00

    Return to Vlora

    Easy cruise back across the bay. We're usually tied up by 16:00, in time for a sunset drink on the Lungomare.

Experience & Highlights

  • Enter the Haxhi Ali sea cave by boat
  • Walk on Sazan, Albania's mysterious ex-military island
  • Two long swim & snorkel stops in turquoise coves
  • Light lunch, fruit and drinks on board
  • Small group, never a packed party boat

Full Description

From Sazan we follow the Karaburun Peninsula, a 16-kilometre wall of cliffs, sea caves and empty white-pebble coves that you can't reach by road. We anchor twice for long swim and snorkel stops, including the famous Haxhi Ali cave, big enough for the boat to slip inside.

Lunch is simple and good: fresh fruit, local byrek, cold drinks, and plenty of time to do absolutely nothing in the sun. Our skipper and guide both grew up on this coast, so they know its history and its hidden corners.

What's included

  • Professional skipper and English-speaking guide
  • Light lunch, seasonal fruit and soft drinks
  • Snorkelling masks and safety equipment
  • Marine national park entry permits
  • Fuel, taxes and port fees

Not included

  • Hotel pickup (available as an add-on from Vlora hotels)
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Towels, please bring your own
  • Gratuities (appreciated, never expected)

Good to know

  • Landing on Sazan depends on sea conditions and naval authority clearance on the day.
  • The tour runs May through October. In July and August we strongly recommend booking at least 5 days ahead.
  • Not recommended for travellers with limited mobility; boarding involves a few steep steps.
  • Children of all ages are welcome; life jackets in kids' sizes are on board.

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